Lambert High School, known for its academic excellence and development, is an ecosystem of education that fosters a variety of different talents and passions. While Lambert may be known for its accomplishments in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, it also is home to students of the arts. Among these creatives is Annice Stephen, a junior whose passion for photography, film and digital art lights up the halls of Lambert.
Starting from a young age, Annice found her love for the arts within everything as she used all the tools at her disposal to develop her talents.
“In elementary school, we started using iMovie, and I would just make videos with my church friends after the service,” Annice stated. “I guess from there, I just got more interested in it and started taking classes.”
As Annice entered high school, she began to recognize the importance of taking artistic classes to help progress her art journey. So, starting from freshman year, she has pursued her passions by taking any and all classes that interested her.
Currently, Annice is enrolled in AP 2D Art and Design along with Audio Video Technology and Film III. These classes have not only provided her with the tools to refine her skills but also allowed her the opportunity to work with other talented students.
“For my film class, we have the Film Festival in April, so right now, we’re just working on videos to prepare for that,” Annice stated. “We’re just doing a suspenseful comedy.”
Driven by her passion for all things in the arts, Annice looked beyond classroom walls to further develop her talents. With a focus on photography and film, she joined both the Photography Club and SkillsUSA and climbed up the ranks to two very distinguished PR officer positions for the Photography Club and Vice President of SkillsUSA.
But Annice’s passion for film and photography stretches far beyond the work that she does at school, as during the summer, Annice works as a photographer as well.
“Last summer, I worked as a photographer at Camp All American at Perimeter church,” Annice stated. “And then this year, I’ve already been hired back to do video.”
Her work over the summer has proved instrumental for Annice as an immersive learning experience that offered a firsthand look into the film industry.
Looking into the future, Annice wants to continue her study of the arts in college and hopefully find a job within the field of animation.
“I know that I want to do a lot of photography and film and focus on that side and more artistic interests,” Annice said. “I want to find a college that has both animation and film.”
With her innate passion for creating, Annice encourages everyone to follow their creative passions in life, no matter what obstacles they may face.
“Sometimes it can be hard to find the resources to get more opportunities in art, but if you look hard enough, there is always somewhere where you can explore your creative interests,” Annice said.
